Peptide-lipid constructs and their use in diagnostic and therapeutic applications

ABSTRACT

Peptide-lipid constructs of the structure L-S-F are disclosed, where F is a peptide, S is a spacer covalently linking F to L via an oligomer of ethylene glycol, and L is a diacyl- or dialkyl-glycerolipid (including glycerophospholipids). The spacer ideally has 6 to 14 ethylene glycol repeats, corresponding to PEG with a molecular weight of approximately 250 to 600. Also disclosed is a method of detecting reactive antibodies in serum by contacting serum with cells modified to incorporate a peptide-lipid construct, where the peptide is an epitope of the antibody, and determining the degree of aggluthination of the cells.

This application is the U.S. national phase of International Application No. PCT/NZ2008/000239 filed 11 Sep. 2008 which designated the U.S. and claims priority to New Zealand Application Nos. 561381, 562475 and 569023 filed 11 Sep. 2007, 12 Oct. 2007 and 6 Jun. 2008, respectively, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to methods for effecting qualitative and quantitative changes in the levels of peptide expressed at the surface of cells and multi-cellular structures, and constructs for use in such methods.

In particular, the invention relates to peptide-lipid constructs for use in diagnostic and therapeutic applications, including serodiagnosis.

BACKGROUND ART

The ability to effect qualitative and quantitative changes in the level of peptides expressed at the surface of cells and multi-cellular structures provides for a range of diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Qualitative and quantitative changes in the level of peptides expressed at the surface may modify trans-membrane transport, cell-solute and cell-cell interactions, and thus the functionality of the modified cell or multi-cellular structure.

Known methods of effecting such changes include gene manipulation, chemical modification of endogenous membrane peptides, and “cell surface painting” using lipid anchors such as GPI.

The specification accompanying international application number PCT/NZ2005/000052 (publication number WO 2005/090368) describes the preparation of water soluble carbohydrate-lipid constructs for use in methods of effecting qualitative and quantitative changes in the level of carbohydrates expressed at the surface of cells and multicellular structures.

The specification accompanying international application number PCT/NZ2006/000245 (publication number WO 2007/035116) describes another method for the preparation of water soluble carbohydrate-lipid constructs where the carbohydrate is the polymer hyaluronic acid. Use of the construct to modify embryos and promote association with endometrial cells is described.

Relatively little work has been performed on the site-directed coupling of peptides to phospholipids as individual components prior to their incorporation in self assembling lipid structures, such as liposomes, or as would be required to provide peptide-lipid constructs for use in methods of effecting qualitative and quantitative changes in the level of peptide expressed at the surface of cells and multicellular structures.

A variety of standard techniques have been described for the covalent coupling of peptides to liposomes surfaces.

Martin et al (1990) has reviewed methods of attaching moieties including peptides, to the surface of liposomes.

Blume et al (1993) describes the coupling of the water soluble Glu-plasminogen to liposomes by the method described by Kung and Redemann (1986). The chemical ECDI (1-ethyl-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride) is used to activate the liposomes prior to incubation of the activated liposome suspension with Glu-plasminogen. Proteo-PEG-coated liposomes with Glu-plasminogen covalently attached to the ends of the distearylyphosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE)-PEG-COOH are provided.

Haselgrübler et al (1995) describes a heterobifunctional crosslinker used to facilitate the preparation of immunoliposomes. The crosslinker is synthesised from a diamine derivative of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG, average molecular weight 800 dalton (18mer)). The crosslinker has 2-(pyridylthio)propronyl (PDP) and N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (NHS) as functional groups.

Ishida et al (2001) describes the preparation of liposomes bearing polyethylene glycol-coupled transferrin. Transferrin was conjugated via the terminal carboxyl residue of DSPE-PEG-COOH. The liposomes were proposed as having utility in in vivo cytoplasmic targeting of chemotherapeutic agents or plasmid DNAs to target cells.

Massaguer et al (2001) describes the incorporation of a peptide sequence (GGRGRS) and hydrophobic derivatives to the surface of chemically activated liposomes. The incorporation was carried out through the carboxyl group of N-glutaryl dipalmitoyl phosphatidyl choline (NGPE).

Massaguer et al (2001) noted that considering potential in vivo applications, where sterility and simplicity would be some of the most important requirements, processes based on chemical reactions on the surface of liposomes involving extra steps would be more difficult to be scaled up at the industrial level. A hydrophobic derivative of the peptide sequence was identified as providing optimal properties for incorporation to the surface of liposomes.

Chung et al (2004) describe the antigenic determinant shielding effect of DOPE-PEG incorporated into the membranes of cells and speculated concerning the potential of lipid-PEG(n)(s) to regulate biological cell responses and the extension of this concept to the introduction of functional molecules at the end of the PEG chain.

Kato et al (2004) describe a method for anchoring of macromolecular proteins into the membranes of living mammalian cells. A dioleylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) derivative coupled with hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG80) was used as the synthetic membrane anchor. Peptides were conjugated at the distal terminal of the PEG moiety via an amino-reactive N-hydroxysuccinimide derivative of the synthetic membrane anchor.

The PEG80 moiety facilitated solublisation of the synthetic membrane anchor in water. As noted by Kato et al (2004) if the anchor is insoluble in water, undesirable and complicated processes such as liposome preparation and the fusion of liposomes with the cell membrane may be required to anchor the conjugates into the cell membrane.

An additional advantage noted by Kato et al (2004) was that synthetic membrane anchors with high hydrophile-lipophile balance values (attributable to PEG spacer with a high number of oxyethylene units) were concluded to have no cytolytic activity. However, difficulties arise in the use of synthetic membrane anchors including a PEG spacer with a high number of oxyethylene units.

Firstly, the expression of the conjugative peptide or other endogenous cell surface peptides may be masked by the PEG spacer. Secondly, a PEG spacer with a high number of oxyethylene units may elicit non-specific adherence of protein (including antibodies in certain individuals) and/or the non-specific activation of the complement cascade.

Winger et al (1996) describes the conjugation of bromoacetylated DSPE with a thiol terminated decapeptide comprising at its C-terminus the minimal human thrombin-receptor peptide agonist (HS-SerPheLeuLeuArgAsn).

Hashimoto et al (1986) describes the conjugation of iodoacetylated DSPE with thiolated compounds.

A need exists for peptide-lipid constructs that can be used to effect qualitative and quantitative changes in the level of peptides expressed at the surface of cells and multi-cellular structures.

It is an object of this invention to provide peptide-lipid constructs that satisfy this need or at least provide a useful choice.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

In a first aspect the invention provides a method of detecting reactive antibody in the serum of a subject including the steps of:

-   -   Contacting a sample of the serum with a suspension of cells         modified to incorporate a peptide-lipid construct of the         structure (L-S-)_(i)F(-S-L)_(j) to provide a mixture;     -   Incubating the mixture for a time and at a temperature         sufficient to allow agglutination; and     -   Determining the degree of agglutination of the cells in the         mixture;

where:

-   -   F is a peptide comprising an epitope for the reactive antibody;     -   S is a spacer covalently linking F to L; and     -   L is a lipid selected from the group consisting of diacyl- and         dialkyl-glycerolipids, including glycerophospholipids; and     -   i and j are independently 0 or 1,

Optionally, the method includes the preliminary step of:

-   -   Adding an amount of the peptide to the sample of the serum;

where the amount of the peptide is sufficient to neutralize non-specific agglutination or confirm specificity of the reactive antibody.

Optionally, the method includes the intermediate step of:

-   -   Adding an anti-subject globulin antibody to the mixture prior to         determining the degree of agglutination of the cells of the         mixture.

Preferably, the subject is a human.

Preferably, the cells are red blood cells.

Preferably, the anti-subject globulin antibody is anti-human globulin (AHG) antibody.

Preferably, the reactive antibody is reactive to an antigen selected from the group consisting of: Glycophorin A, Glycophorin B, or mutations thereof (including the MNS blood group system).

The spacer (S) is selected to provide a water soluble peptide-lipid construct.

Preferably, S is a spacer covalently linking F to L via an oligomer of ethylene glycol.

Preferably, the structure of the peptide-lipid construct includes the substructure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺), n is 6 to 14 and * is other than H.

More preferably, the structure of the peptide-lipid construct is either:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺), n is 6 to 14, w is 1 or 2, the sum of x and y is greater than 5, z is greater than 5, and * is other than H.

Preferably, the sum of i and j is 1.

Optionally, F is a peptide including a proximal terminal sequence (PTS) selected to promote solubility of the peptide.

In a preferment of this option, the PTS of the peptide is selected from the group consisting of:

SerLysLysLysLysGly AlaAlaAlaAla GlySerGlySerGly

Preferably, F is a peptide comprising an epitope of antigens selected from the group consisting of: Glycophorin A, Glycophorin B, or mutations thereof (including the MNS blood group system).

More preferably, F is a peptide selected from the List of Peptides.

Most preferably, F is a peptide selected from the group consisting of:

GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrAlaAlaAlaAlaAlaCys GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys GlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys          SerSerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrCys                   ThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValCys                         ProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValCys                   SerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspCys AlaAlaAlaAlaValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly GlySerGlySerGlyValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly

Preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid. More preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid selected from the group consisting of: 1,2-O-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and 1,2-O-distearyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE).

Preferably, the peptide-lipid construct is an exemplifying embodiment of the second or third aspect of the invention.

In a second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure: L-S-F

where

-   -   F is a peptide;     -   S is a spacer covalently linking F to L via an oligomer of         ethylene glycol; and     -   L is a lipid selected from the group consisting of diacyl- and         dialkyl-glycerolipids, including glycerophospholipids.

Preferably, the structure of the peptide-lipid construct includes the substructure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺), n is 6 to 14 and * is other than H.

Optionally, F is a peptide including a proximal terminal sequence (PTS) selected to promote solubility of the peptide.

In a preferment of this option, the PTS of the peptide is selected from the group consisting of:

SerLysLysLysLysGly AlaAlaAlaAla GlySerGlySerGly

Preferably, the terminal sequence of the peptide is selected from the group consisting of:

GlyLysLysLysLysSerCys       AlaAlaAlaAlaCys    GlySerGlySerGlyCys CysSerLysLysLysLysGly CysAlaAlaAlaAla CysGlySerGlySerGly

Preferably, S is covalently linked to F via a sulphide bond formed with the Cys residue of the peptide.

More preferably, S is covalently linked to F via a sulphide bond formed with a Cys residue of the peptide at or proximal to a terminus of the peptide.

Most preferably, S is linked to F via a sulphide bond formed with a Cys residue of the peptide at the carboxy-terminus of the peptide.

The spacer (S) is of the structure S₁—S₂—S₃ and selected to provide a water-soluble peptide-lipid construct. S₁ is an oligomer of ethylene glycol.

Preferably, S₂—S₃ is selected from the group consisting of:

where R₁ is a terminal carbon of S₁, R₂ is the sulphur of the Cys residue and w is 1 or 2.

Preferably, the structure of the peptide-lipid construct is:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺), n is 6 to 14, w is 1 or 2, the sum of x and y is greater than 5, and * is other than H. More preferably, n is 6. Most preferably, y is 0.

Preferably, F is a peptide comprising an epitope of antigens selected from the group consisting of: Glycophorin A, Glycophorin B, or mutations thereof (including the MNS blood group system).

More preferably, F is a peptide selected from the List of Peptides.

Most preferably, F is a peptide selected from the group consisting of:

GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrAlaAlaAlaAlaAlaCys GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys GlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys          SerSerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrCys                   ThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValCys                         ProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValCys                   SerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspCys

Preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid. More preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid selected from the group consisting of: 1,2-O-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and 1,2-O-distearyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE).

In an exemplifying first embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-PTS-1MUTK) (M1).

In an exemplifying second embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-PTS-2MUTK) (M2).

In an exemplifying third embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-PTS-3MUTM (M3).

In an exemplifying fourth embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-13MUTK (M13).

In an exemplifying fifth embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-18Mur (M18) (n=6).

In an exemplifying sixth embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-21MUTK (M21) (n=6).

In an exemplifying seventh embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Hil3 (M23) (n=6).

In an exemplifying eighth embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-PTS-Milt(K,M).

In an exemplifying ninth embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M00).

In an exemplifying tenth embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(M).

In an exemplifying eleventh embodiment of the second aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K,M).

In a third aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure: L-S-F

where

-   -   F is a peptide;     -   S is a spacer covalently linking F to L via an oligomer of         ethylene glycol; and     -   L is a lipid selected from the group consisting of diacyl- and         dialkyl-glycerolipids, including glycerophospholipids.

Preferably, the structure of the peptide-lipid construct is:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺), n is 6 to 14, z is greater than 5, and * is other than H. More preferably, n is 14.

Optionally, F is a peptide including a terminal sequence selected to promote solubility of the peptide.

In a preferment of this option, the terminal sequence of the peptide is selected from the group consisting of:

SerLysLysLysLysGly AlaAlaAlaAla GlySerGlySerGly

Preferably, F is a peptide selected from the group consisting of:

(Xaa)_(z)ValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly;

where z is the integer 4, 5 or 6.

Preferably, F is a peptide selected from the group consisting of:

SerLysLysLysLysGlyValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly AlaAlaAlaAlaValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly GlySerGlySerGlyValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly

Preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid. More preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid selected from the group consisting of: 1,2-O-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and 1,2-O-distearyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE).

In an exemplifying first embodiment of the third aspect the invention provides a peptide-lipid construct of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺) and designated DOPE-PEG₁₄-Syph.

In a fourth aspect the invention provides a method of preparing a peptide-lipid construct (F-S-L) of the second aspect of the invention including the steps of:

-   -   Preparing a maleimido-derivative of a precursor construct by         reacting a maleimido-donating reagent with a precursor construct         of the structure L-S₁-NH₂; and     -   Reacting the maleimido-derivative of the precursor construct         with a peptide (F) including a Cys residue and solubilised in a         solvent.

where:

-   -   L is a lipid selected from the group consisting of diacyl- and         dialkyl-glycerolipids, including glycerophospholipids; and     -   S₁ is selected from the group consisting of oligomers of         ethylene glycol.

Preferably, the structure of the peptide-lipid construct is:

where n is 6 to 14, w is 1 or 2, the sum of x and y is greater than 5, and * is other than H.

Preferably the maleimido-donating reagent is selected from the group consisting of: N-oxysuccinimid ester of maleimidobutyric acid; and N-oxysuccinimid ester of maleimidopropionic acid

Preferably, S₁ is an oligomer of ethylene glycol selected from the group consisting of 6 to 14 mer PEG (PEG₆ to PEG₁₄). Most preferably, S₁ is PEG₆.

Preferably, the solvent is selected from the group consisting of: trifluoroethanol; DMSO; or mixtures thereof.

Preferably, the Cys residue is a terminal Cys residue.

Optionally, F is a peptide including a proximal terminal sequence (PTS) selected to promote solubility of the peptide in the reaction solvent.

In a preferment of this option, the PTS of the peptide is selected from the group consisting of:

SerLysLysLysLysGly AlaAlaAlaAla GlySerGlySerGly

Preferably, the terminal sequence of the peptide is selected from the group consisting of:

GlyLysLysLysLysSerCys       AlaAlaAlaAlaCys    GlySerGlySerGlyCys CysSerLysLysLysLysGly CysAlaAlaAlaAla CysGlySerGlySerGly

Preferably, F is a peptide selected from the List of Peptides.

Preferably, F is a peptide selected from the group consisting of:

GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrAlaAlaAlaAlaAlaCys GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys GlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys          SerSerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrCys                   ThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValCys                         ProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValCys                   SerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspCys

Preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid. More preferably, L is a glycerophospholipid selected from the group consisting of: 1,2-O-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and 1,2-O-distearyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE).

In a fifth aspect the invention provides a method of effecting qualitative and quantitative changes in the levels of peptide expressed at the surface of cells and multi-cellular structures including the step of:

-   -   contacting the cells or multi-cellular structures with a         solution of a peptide-lipid construct of the second or third         aspects of the invention at a concentration and for a time and         temperature sufficient to allow the construct to incorporate         into the surface.

Preferably, the peptide-lipid construct is a construct of the second aspect of the invention.

Preferably the cells or multicellular structures are selected from the group consisting of: red blood cells; and embryos. More preferably, the cells or multicellular structures are human cells on multicellular structures.

Preferably, the time and temperature is no greater than 2 hours at 37° C. or 24 hours at 4° C.

In all aspects of the invention M is typically H, but may be replaced by another monovalent cation such as Na⁺, K⁺ or NH₄ ⁺.

In the description and claims of the specification the following acronyms, phrases and terms have the meaning provided:

“Diagnostic marker” means a molecule, the presence of which in a body fluid of a subject is diagnostic of a phenotype or pathological condition of the subject.

“MNS blood group system” means blood group antigens or epitopes of those antigens and mutations which are present on either glycophorin A, glycophorin B or mutations which result in glycophorin A/B hybrids.

“Proximal terminal sequence” means that portion of the peptide sequence proximal to the amino- or carboxy-terminus of the peptide (F).

“RBC” means red blood cells.

“Reactive antibody” means an immunoglobulin, the presence of which in a body fluid of a subject is diagnostic of a phenotype or pathological condition of the subject.

“Via an oligomer of ethylene glycol” means a polymer of ethylene glycol consisting of 2 to 32 mer and specifically excludes via a polymer of ethylene glycol consisting of greater than 32 mer.

“Water soluble” means a stable, single phase system is formed when the construct is contacted with water or saline (such as PBS) at a concentration of at least 100 μg/ml and in the absence of organic solvents or detergents. The phrase is used synonymously with the term “water dispersible”.

Exemplifying embodiments of the invention are claimed and will now be described in detail with reference to the Figures of the accompanying drawings pages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1. ¹H-NMR spectrum of the peptide-lipid construct designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M13) (5 mg/ml in CD₃OD/CDCl₃/D₂O/0.5M CF₃COOD 60/20/10/1, 600 MHz, 30° C., 6 ppm).

FIG. 2. MALDI TOF mass-spectrum of the peptide-lipid-construct designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M13) (2856: Peptide-DOPE (M+H); 2878: Peptide-DOPE (M+Na); 2894: Peptide-DOPE (M+K); 2900: Peptide-DOPE (M+Na, Na salt); 2916: Peptide-DOPE (M+K, Na salt)).

FIG. 3. ESI mass-spectrum and analytical HPLC of the peptide SerSerGlnThrAshAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys of the peptide-lipid construct designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M13).

FIG. 4. ¹H-NMR spectrum of the peptide SerSerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArg AspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys of the peptide-lipid construct designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M13) (4.5 mg/ml in D₂O, 600 MHz, 30° C., δ ppm).

FIG. 5. Photomicrographs of zona free embryos modified to incorporate the M2 peptide-lipid construct by contacting the embryos with a dispersion of the construct at a concentration of 1 mg/mL for 2 hours. The upper photomicrograph is the DIC image. The lower photomicrograph is the fluorescent image showing 3.0+ fluorescence.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general terms the invention provides peptide-lipid constructs of the structure (L-S-)_(i)F(-S-L)_(j) where:

-   -   F is a peptide;     -   S is a spacer covalently linking F to L;     -   L is a lipid selected from the group consisting of diacyl- and         dialkyl-glycerolipids, including glycerophospholipids;     -   i and j are independently 0 or 1;

and the use of these peptide-lipid constructs in diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Where i is 0 and j is 1 the peptide-lipid constructs are of the structure: F-S-L

Where i is 1 and j is 0 the peptide-lipid constructs are of the structure: L-S-F

Where S is linked to F via the amino terminus of the peptide the construct is represented by the structure or substructure L-S-F.

Where S is linked to F via the carboxyl terminus of the peptide the construct is represented by the structure or substructure F-S-L.

Where S is linked to F via a sulphide bond formed via the sulfhydryl group of a Cys residue of the peptide the residue is identified with an underscore (Cys).

Where S is linked to F via a sulphide bond formed with one or more Cys residues of the peptide, the representation of the peptide-lipid construct by the structure L-S-F-S-L, L-S-F or F-S-L is not intended to imply the sulphide bond is formed exclusively with terminal Cys residues.

The use of the peptide-lipid constructs in diagnostic applications is illustrated with reference to the use of constructs including the substructure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺), n is 6 to 14, * is other than H, and the peptide is selected from the group of peptides consisting of peptides included in the List of Peptides provided on the following pages where z is an integer from 0 to 6.

[followed by pages 27 & 28]

List of Peptides Cys(Xaa)_(z)TrpThrProProArgAlaGlnIleThrGlyTyrLeuThrValGlyLeuThrArgArg Cys(Xaa)_(z)TrpThrProProArgAlaGlnIleThrGlyTyrArgLeuThrValGlyLeuThrArgArg Cys(Xaa)_(z)ValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly                                                          ValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                              AspTyrHisArgValMetTyrAlaSerSerGly(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                           ThrAsnGlyGluThrGlyGlnLeuValHisArgPhe(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                           ThrAsnGlyGluMetGlyGlnLeuValHisArgPhe(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                        AspThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValSerGlu(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 ThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluVal(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                       ProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluVal(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                       TyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGlu(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                       ThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsn(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                    ThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGlu(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                    TyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluVal(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                    ProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValSer(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 AspThrTyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGlu(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 TyrProAlaHisThrAlaAsnGluValSer(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 SerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAsp(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                              GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyr(Xaa)_(z) Cys       GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrSerSerGlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyr(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                              GlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyr(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 SerSerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArg(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                        SerSerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyr(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                        SerSerGlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyr(Xaa)_(z) Cys SerSerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrSerSerGlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyr(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThr(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                              SerGlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThr(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                              ThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrPro(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 GluGluThrGlyGluThrGlyGlnLeuVal(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 GluGluGluThrGlyGluThrGlyGlnLeu(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 GluThrGlyGluThrGlyGlnLeuValHis(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                    SerProProArgArgAlaArgValThr(Xaa)_(z) Cys                               TyrArgTyrArgTyrThrProLysGluLysThrGlyProMetLysGlu(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                       TrpGlnProProArgAlaArgIle(Xaa)_(z) Cys                                                 ThrIleThrGlyLeuGluProGlyThrGlu(Xaa)_(z) Cys

The amino acid residues of peptides are identified according to Table 3 of Appendix 2 of Annex C of the Administrative Instructions under the Patent Cooperation Treaty dated 7 Feb. 2007 and in accordance with the convention:

H₂N-XaaXaaXaa...XaaXaaXaa-COOH

There is a need for inexpensive and low level sensitivity test systems for a range of diagnostic markers in donated blood, in transfusion recipients, or in antenatal patients (where the unborn child may be at risk of haemolytic disease), e.g. syphilis markers and markers of the MNS blood group system. A particular advantage provided by the invention is the opportunity to employ established blood typing platforms to detect a range of peptide antigen-antibody interactions. The capital costs associated with establishing a new diagnostic assay may therefore be avoided.

Some clinically significant blood group antigens are rare (or rare in some populations). For example mutations of the MNS blood group system resulting in Miltenberger antigens are rare in Europeans, but common in Asians. Being able to create antibody detection and identification panels requires that these antigens be present on the diagnostic screening cells. Obtaining cells suitable for antibody screening/identification having rare antigens is therefore problematic. Being able to add to cells rare antigens prepared exogenously is therefore a major advantage.

According to the method of the invention epitope containing peptide sequences for a range of diagnostic markers, such as specific reacting antibodies, can be localized to the surface of red blood cells (RBCs). These modified RBCs may then be used on existing blood typing platforms to detect blood antobodies or pathologies.

Although the invention is illustrated with reference to the modification of red blood cells and embryos the outer surface of other cells and multi-cellular structures is contemplated. However, red blood cells are preferred for use in diagnostic assays because of the facility with which these modified cells could be used in blood typing laboratories.

The level of peptide-lipid construct incorporated into the cell membrane of red blood cells is controlled by the concentration of the construct in the dispersion contacted with the suspension. The presence of diagnostic markers may then be assessed by agglutination whether direct (induced by centrifugation of cells) or indirect (induced by adding an antibody directed against the immunoglobulins of the subject). Other methods of assessment may be employed including, for example, rosetting (Indiveri et al 1979) and enzyme linked immunosorbant assays (ELISA).

In contrast with the preparation of constructs where the function (F) is a carbohydrate, the preparation of constructs where F is a peptide presents a combination of technical difficulties.

Firstly, it is desirable for the peptide (F) ligated to the L-S or S-L moiety to be dispersible in the solvents used for the ligation chemistry. Overcoming this difficulty may require the selection of a proximal terminal sequence (PTS) to promote solubility without modifying the desired biological properties of the construct.

Secondly, it is r for the construct (L-S-F-S-L, L-S-F or F-S-L) to be dispersible in water, or at least a biocompatible medium such as buffered saline, according to the requirements of the proposed application (i.e. it is desirable for the construct to be “water soluble” as defined herein). Overcoming this difficulty requires the selection of a spacer (S) to promote solubility of the construct.

Thirdly, where the proposed application is the modification of cells such as red blood cells (RBCs) for use in diagnostic applications, including use as quality controls in blood group typing or detection of diagnostic antibodies present in patient serum, it is required for the construct to be dispersible without participating in antigen-antibody cross reactivity not specific to the diagnostic marker. Satisfying this requirement requires the identification of suitable structural motifs for the spacer (S) and proximal terminal sequence (PTS) when the latter is present, or the development of sample preparation procedures that neutralize or at least substantially mitigate the undesired cross reactivity and likelihood of false positives.

It should also be noted that where the application is for use in the modification of the surface of cells or multi-cellular structures (e.g. an embryo) with a view to promoting the association of the modified cell or modified multi-cellular structure with a target surface (e.g. the endometrium) exposing the cell or multi-cellular structure to solvents is incompatible with maintaining the cells or multicellular structures in a viable state.

The ability to localise peptides to the surface of cells or multi-cellular structures via a residue proximal to either the N- or C-terminus of the peptide may also allow the naturally occurring configuration of the peptide sequence relative to the cell surface to be approximated. The presentation of the peptide sequence in the tertiary (or quaternary) structure of the parent polypeptide (or protein) may therefore be mimicked.

Although not demonstrated here it is contemplated that peptides may be localised to the surface of cells via multiple residues. For example, where both a residue proximal to the amino terminus and a residue proximal to the carboxyl terminus are used to localize the peptide, a “looped” configuration of the peptide may be promoted at the surface.

The use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a spacer to promote solubility is known. However, polymers of PEG may interfere with the expression and function of the peptide at the surface. In the peptide-lipid constructs of the invention an oligomer of ethylene glycol (6 to 14 mer) is selected as a component (S₁) of the spacer (S) linking the lipid (L) and peptide (F).

Oligomers of ethylene glycol impart less solubility to peptide-lipid constructs of the structure L-S-F than polymers of PEG. The difficulty referred to above therefore arises when it is desired to obtain peptide-lipid constructs that are dispersible in biocompatible solvents and can be used in methods of effecting qualitative and quantitative changes in the levels of peptide expressed at the surface of cells and multi-cellular structures.

The properties of the peptide-lipid constructs must be such that they can be readily dispersed in biologically compatible media in the absence of solvents or detergents, but incorporate into the lipid bilayer of a membrane when a solution of the construct is contacted with a suspension of cells or multi-cellular structures.

Peptide-lipid constructs with these potentially conflicting properties are prepared by adopting the combination of structural motifs described here. The preparation of the peptide-lipid constructs where S is linked to F via a sulphide bond formed with a terminal Cys residue of the peptide at the carboxy-terminus of the peptide is preferred as the peptide is less prone to oxidation.

Adopting the combinations of structural motifs in accordance with the description provided here a range of peptides may be prepared as peptide-lipid constructs for use in methods of effecting qualitative and quantitative changes in the levels of peptide expressed at the surface of cells and multi-cellular structures.

It will be understood that for a non-specific interaction, such as the interaction between diacyl- or dialkyl-glycerolipids or glycerophospholipids and a membrane, structural and stereo-isomers of naturally occurring lipids can be functionally equivalent. For example, it is contemplated that diacylglycerol 2-phosphate could be substituted for phosphatidate (diacylglycerol 3-phosphate). Furthermore it is contemplated that the absolute configuration of phosphatidate can be either R or S.

Preparation of DOPE-PEG₆-NH₂ (7)

DOPE-PEG₆-NH₂ (L-S₁-NH₂) (7, 800 mg) was prepared by the method of SCHEME 1. To a stirred solution of DOPE (5) (36 mg, 0.0484 mmol) in dry CHCl₃ (3 ml) a solution of Fmoc-PEG-NOS (4) (237 mg, 0.0697 mmol (containing about 80% of active N-oxysuccinimide ester)) in dry CHCl₃ (1 ml) and Et₃NH (30 ml) was added.

The solution was stirred for 15 h at 20° C., then Et₃NH (3 ml) was added, and the mixture was maintained for at 8 h at 20° C. The solution was then diluted with toluene (10 ml), evaporated under reduced pressure (10 to 15 torr) and dried under vacuum.

The crude residue was dissolved in H₂O/MeOH/AcOH mixture (10:5:1 (v/v/v), 3 ml) and the solution was slowly applied to a reverse phase C₁₆ column (15 ml, water). Salts, N-hydroxysuccinimide and H₂N-PEG-DOPE (7) were eluted from the column with MeOH/H₂O 1:2 (v/v) (30 ml), 1:1 (v/v) (15 ml) and 2:1 (v/v) (15 ml). Target H₂N-PEG-DOPE (7) was eluted from the column with MeOH (30 ml) and then with MeOH to MeOH/CHCl₃ mixtures (4:1 (v/v), 3:1 (v/v), 2:1 (v/v) and 1:1 (v/v); 30 ml each). Fractions containing H₂N-PEG-DOPE (7) were combined, evaporated under reduced pressure (10 to 15 torr) and dried under vacuum.

The residue obtained as a thin film on the flask walls was extracted twice with hexane (2×5 ml) and dried under vacuum to yield 143 mg of H₂N-PEG-DOPE (7) (78% on DOPE) as a white solid. TLC: R_(f)=0.62 (ethanol/water/pyridine/AcOH; 3:1:1:1 (v/v/v/v)).

¹H-NMR (500 MHz, CD₃OD, 30° C.): δ=5.541 (m, 4H; 2 —CH═CH—), 5.416 (m, 1H; OCH₂CHCH₂O), 4.624 (dd, J=12 Hz, J=3.2 Hz, 1H; CO—OCHCHCH₂), 4.373 (dd, J=12 Hz, J=6.6 Hz, 1H; CO—OCHCHCH₂), 4.195 (t, J=5.6 Hz, 2H; POCH ₂CH₂N), 4.117 (m, 2H; POCHCHCH₂), 3.968 (m, 4H; OCH ₂CH₂O, OCH ₂CH₂N), 3.932 (t, J=6.2 Hz, 2H; OCH ₂CH₂CO), 3.827 (m, 272 H; (—OCH ₂CH₂—)_(n), n=68), 3.683 (m, 2H; OCH ₂OH₂O), 3.622 (t, J=5.6 Hz, 2H; OCH₂CH ₂N), 3.397 (t, J=5.0 Hz, 2H; OCH₂CH₂N), 2.678 (t, J=6.2 Hz, 2H; OCH₂CH ₂CO), 2.519 (m, 4H; 2 CH₂CO), 2.228 (m, 8H; 2 CH₂CH═CHCH₂), 1.801 (m, 4H; 2 CH₂CH₂CO), 1.508 (m, 40H; —CH₂—), 1.096 (˜t, 6H; 2 CH₃) ppm.

Preparation of Peptide-Lipid Constructs

Maleimido-derivatives of DOPE-PEG₆-NH₂ were used for the preparation of peptide-lipid constructs (L-S-F) by the method of SCHEME 2 via the maleimide-thiol Michael addition reaction.

Synthesis via the maleimido-derivatives of DOPE-PEG₆-NH₂ has particular advantages over synthesis via iodoacetate derivatives as difficulties and low yields as a consequence of oxidation of the sulfhydryl residues of the peptide and subsequent dimer formation. Reducing agents (e.g. tertiary phosphines) may be used during conjugation.

Maleimido-derivatives were synthesized with 65 to 70% yields starting from N-oxysuccinimid esters of maleimidobutyric and maleimidopropionic acids (8a, 8b). An unexpected complication arose due to the presence of excess Bu₃P which appeared to be highly reactive towards the maleimide function. Phosphine was therefore used only in sub-equivalent amounts (0.1 to 0.2 equivalents).

[followed by page 36]

Trifluoroethanol used as a co-solvent in the preparation of 10bC where the peptide was GlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys appeared to be highly efficient for solubilization of both reactants. However, the solvent also caused unwanted acidification of the reaction medium which may inhibit the Michael reaction. The isolated yield of 10bC in this experiment was ˜25%. Preparation of 10aC where the peptide was GlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyrGlySerGlySerGlyCys (DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-3MUTM (M3)) carried out using DMSO as co-solvent was more successful and provided a 43% yield.

The same solvent strategy in the preparation of 10bC where the peptide was GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrSerSerGlnThrAsnAspMetHisLysArgAspThrTyrAlaAlaAlaAlaCys (DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-PTS-Milt(K,M)) failed because the peptide supplied appeared to be very acidic and caused solubilization problems. The yield of 10bC in this experiment was only 23% and about half of the peptide was recovered.

Molecular weights for the peptide lipid constructs were determined to be:

DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(M)-3029.48 DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K, M)-4591.12

As expected for peptides bearing the glutamine residue at the N-terminus, all preparations contain variable amounts of related pyroglytamyl derivatives, M-17 in MS, due to loss of NH₃. The formation of related pyroglytamyl derivatives was mitigated in peptides with N-terminal Ser residues.

The use of the peptide-lipid constructs in methods for effecting qualitative and quantitative changes in the levels of peptide expressed at the surface of cells and multi-cellular structures is illustrated with reference to the serodiagnosis.

Modification of Red Blood Cells with Peptide-Lipid Constructs (General Method)

Red blood cells are modified by mixing 1 part by volume of washed packed red blood cells with 1 part by volume of peptide-lipid construct dispersed at a concentration of 10 to 1000 μg/ml in cell media (Celpresol™).

The suspensions are either:

-   -   1. incubated for 2 hours at 37° C. before being washed and         suspended in a cell medium for serological analysis at a         concentration of 0.8 to 3% (Method 1); or     -   2. incubated for 3 to 4 hours at room temperature (circa 25° C.)         followed by 18 hours at 4° C. before being washed and suspended         in a cell medium for serological analysis at a concentration of         0.8 to 3% (Method 2).

Modification of Red Blood Cells with DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M00)

4.7 mg of the lipid-peptide construct DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M00) was reconstituted in 0.47 ml of Celpresol™ by sonicating for 10 min and allowing to stand for 1 hour to provide a clear 10 mg/ml stock solution.

The stock solution was diluted two-fold to provide a solution of 5 mg/ml and a dilution series then prepared for the peptide-lipid construct at the following concentrations:

-   -   1 mg/ml (1:5 dilution in Celpresol™)     -   0.5 mg/ml (1:10 dilution in Celpresol™)     -   0.25 mg/ml (1:20 dilution in Celpresol™)

200 μl of Miltenberger negative red blood cells (Milt⁻ RBCs) were washed two times with PBS and one time with Celpresol™. 40 μl of a washed packed volume of Milt⁻ RBCs were mixed with 40 μl of a dilution of the peptide-lipid construct and incubated for 2 hours at 37° C.

The modified RBCs were then washed with Celpresol™ and stored in Celpresol™ until used in tube serology testing (3 days and 24 days).

Tube Serology Testing of Modified Red Blood Cells

Serological reactions are graded or scored by either of two established systems (0 or ‘−’=no agglutination, 1+ or 3=very weak agglutination, 2+ or 5=weak agglutination, 3+ or 8=moderate strong agglutination, 4+ or 10/12=strong agglutination)

Serological platforms used are Tube (addition of reagents and reactants into plastic or glass serology tubes and after appropriate incubations, washing and centrifugation observing reactions macroscopically by eye and a 10× magnification eyepiece and scoring) and BioVue™ (addition of reactants into cassettes containing beads (including some reactants) and after appropriate incubations and centrifugation observing the reaction patterns traped within the Gel matrix). BioVue is the serological column agglutination platform of Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics.

Serum samples were available from 47 blood donors of negative antibody screen status. These samples were designated “negative samples”, but not determined not to have anti-Miltenberger antibodies).

Three serum samples known to have Miltenberger related antibodies T217, T6025, T5896. These samples were designated “positive samples”, but not determined to have anti-antibodies against the peptide of the peptide of the construct designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) (M00).

A suspension of 3% modified RBCs was prepared in PBS and 30 μl of the suspension mixed with 30 μl serum sample. The mixtures were then incubated for 45 min at 37° C. Following incubation the RBCs were centrifuged for 10 s in an Immufuge™ (setting: “high”) and observed for agglutination before being washed 3 times with PBS.

After washing one drop of Epiclone™ anti-human globulin (AHG) was added and the tubes then centrifuged for 10 s in an Immufuge™ (setting: “high”). Tubes were then read and serology scores recorded.

TABLE 1 Summary of reactivity of samples of serum from 47 blood donors not expected to have anti-Miltenberger activity (“negative samples”). Concentration of DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K)(M00) (mg/ml) 1.0 0.5 0.25 Age of modified (n = 47) (n = 21) (n = 21) RBCs (days) Serum AHG+ AHG− AHG+ AHG− AHG+ AHG− 3 Negative 1 46 0 21 0 21 samples AHG+ means sample reacted by the anti-human globulin test. AHG− means sample is unreactive. RBCs were modified with the peptide-lipid construct designated DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt(K) at the concentrations indicated. Sera were tested against modified RBCs following 3 days storage.

TABLE 2 Results by tube serology of 3 serums known to contain antibodies against antigens of the Miltenberger complex. Age of Concentration of modified DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt RBCs (K) (M00) (mg/ml) (days) Serum 1.0 0.5 0.25 3 T217 2+ 1+ — 3 T6025 4+ 4+ 4+ 3 T5896 — — — 24 T217 — — n.t. 24 T6025 2+ 2+ n.t. 24 T5896 — — n.t. Score results show sample reactivity by the anti-human globulin test, 1+ = weak, 2+ = medium, 3+ = medium/strong, 4+ = strong, — means sample is unreactive. RBCs were modified with the peptide-lipid construct at the concentrations indicated. Sera were tested against modified RBCs following 3 days and 24 days storage. (n.t.—not tested).

TABLE 3 Results by Diamed column serology of 3 serums known to contain antibodies against the Miltenberger complex. Age of Concentration of modified DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt RBCs (K) (M00) (mg/ml) (days) Serum 1.0 0.5 0.25 3 T217 — — 1+ 3 T6025 1+ 2+ 1+ 3 T5896 — — — 24 T217 — — — 24 T6025 2+ 2+ 1+ 24 T5896 — — — Score results show sample reactivity by the anti-human globulin test, 1+ = weak, 2+ = medium, 3+ = medium/strong, 4+ = strong, — means sample is unreactive. RBCs were modified with the peptide-lipid construct at the concentrations indicated. Sera were tested against modified RBCs following 3 days and 24 days storage.

Peptide Inhibition

A 5 mg/ml stock solution of the peptide GlnThrAsnAspLysHisLysArgAspThrTyrCys dissolved in Celpresol™ was prepared. A 4 μl (20 μg peptide) volume of the stock solution was added to a 30 μl volume of each serum sample (Test). A 4 μl volume of Celpresol™ was added to 30 μl of each serum sample (Control). Serum samples (Test and Control) were then incubated at room temperature (RT) for 10 min.

A 30 μl volume of a 5% suspension of the modified RBCs was added to each sample and incubated at 37° C. for 45 min. The incubated RBCs were then washed 3 times with PBS in an Immufuge™. One drop of Epiclone™ anti-human globulin (AHG) reagent was then added to each sample and the tubes centrifuged for 10 s in an Immufuge™ (setting: “high”). Tubes were read and serology scores recorded.

TABLE 4 Results by tube serology of 3 serums known to contain antibodies against the Miltenberger complex and inhibited with peptide. Concentration of DOPE-PEG₆-βAla-Mal-Milt (K) (M00) (mg/ml) Peptide Serum 1.0 0.5 CONTROL T217 3+ 2+ T6025 4+ 4+ T5896 — — TEST T217 — — T6025 — — T5896 — — Recorded scores show sample reactivity by the anti-human globulin test, 1+ = weak, 2+ = medium, 3+ = medium/strong, 4+ = strong, — means sample is unreactive. RBCs were modified with the peptide-lipid construct at the concentrations indicated.

TABLE 5 Identification of polyclonal sera and monoclonal antibodies employed as reagents. Re- agent ID Type EIA/Miltenberger Specificity 2 T217 Human group AB Reactive with MUT-T peptides serum by EIA 3 T165 Human group O serum Reactive with MUR peptides by EIA 4 T7202 Human group B serum Reactive with MUT-M peptides by EIA 6 T6025 Human group A serum Reactive with MUT-T peptides by EIA 7 T8445 Human group O serum Uncertain 8 T5896 Human group O serum Uncertain 9 MIII Monoclonal antibody Reactive with Mi III red cells 10 Mia Monoclonal antibody Reactive with Mi III red cells 11 Mur Monoclonal antibody Reactive with Mur positive red cells 12 Gam IgG monoclonal Reactive with Mi III red cells antibody 13 BoxH Human serum Uncertain 14 TAP1 Human group O serum Presumed MUT-K specificity 15 TAP2 Human serum Presumed MUR specificity

TABLE 6 Identification of naturally occurring Miltenberger antigen positive (Milt⁺) human red cells as determined in BioVue AHG cards. The specificity of C.BR is uncertain. Polyclonal sera Monoclonal antibodies 2 3 4 5 7 8 14 15 9 10 11 12 Cell ID Antigen T217 T165 T7202 T6025 T8445 T5896 TAP1 TAP2 MIII Mia Mur Gam 9422184 Vw 8 5 3 0 8 0 5 0 0 10 0 12 11297161 MiIII 12 10 12 12 10 10 10 10 10 12 12 4131850 MiIV 12 12 10 0 10 12 12 1523 MiVI 12 12 8 0 10 12 10 T1569 MiVII 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 C.BR Mi?X 12 10 12 12 8 12 12 8 0 10 10 10

TABLE 7 Identification of peptide-lipid constructs.  Designation Peptide sequence M Antigen 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Terminal sequence S₁  1 MUTK Gln Thr Asn Asp Lys His Lys Arg Asp Thr Tyr AlaAlaAlaAlaAla* PEG₆  2 MUTK Gln Thr Asn Asp Lys His Lys Arg Asp Thr Tyr GlySerGlySerGlyCys PEG₆  3 MUTM Gln Thr Asn Asp Met His Lys Arg Asp Thr Tyr GlySerGlySerGlyCys PEG₆ 13 MUTK Ser Ser Gln Thr Asn Asp Lys His Lys Arg Asp Thr Tyr Cys PEG₆ 16 Mur Thr Tyr Pro Ala His Thr Ala Asn Glu Val Cys PEG 18 Mur Pro Ala His Thr Ala Asn Glu Val Cys PEG 21 MUTK Ser Gln Thr Asn Asp Lys His Lys Arg Asp Cys  PEG 23 Hil Glu Glu Thr Gly Glu Thr Gly Gln Leu Val Cys PEG Cys denotes the cysteine residue via the sulfhydryl residue of which the spacer (S) is covalently linked to the peptide or PTS-peptide (F). *Where Cys is absent the spacer (S) is covalently linked to the peptide (F) via the terminal amino residue. All peptide-lipid constructs (F-S-L or L-S-F) were prepared as the DOPE (L) variant.

TABLE 8 Analysis of sorted data for cells modified to incorporate MUT peptide constructs and reactivity against the Miltenberger Antibody Positive Panel. Identity of constructs used in modification of RBCs Identity of polyclonal sera and monoclonal antibodies (see Table 5) (see Table 7) 4 8 2 6 3 14 7 9 10 11 12 13 15 M μg/ml T7202 T5896 T217 T6025 T165 TAP1 T8445 MIII Mia Mur Gam BoxH TAP2 1 500 5 0 3 8 0 nt 0 0 5 0 8 nt nt 2 500 8 8 8 8 5 nt 0 0 5 0 8 nt nt 3 1000 8 10 0 5 nt 0 0 0 0 nt 5 nt 13 250 8 3 8 8 0 nt 0 0 0 0 0 8 nt 21 200 0 0 0 8 8 nt 0 0 0 0 3 nt 5 ‘nt’ denotes not tested.

TABLE 9 Analysis of sorted data for cells modified to incorporate MUR peptide constructs and reactivity against the Miltenberger Antibody Positive Panel. Identity of constructs used in modification of RBCs Identity of polyclonal sera and monoclonal antibodies (see Table 5) (see Table 7) 3 6 7 4 8 2 15 9 10 11 12 13 M ug/ml T165 T6025 T8445 T7202 T5896 T217 TAP2 MIII Mia Mur Gam BoxH 16 100 10  5 12 5 0 0 nt 0 0 0 0 0 18 100 10 10  8 0 0 0 nt 0 0 0 0 nt ‘nt’ denotes not tested.

The majority of polyclonal sera demonstrated cross reactivity with one or more modified red blood cell populations (Tables 8 and 9).

Where false positives were observed these could be substantially eliminated by pre-treatment of the sample of serum with the peptide of the peptide-lipid constructs (Table 10 and 11).

TABLE 10 Sera reactive with RBCs modified to incorporate the M1 peptide- lipid construct or M2 peptide-lipid construct constructs by contacting the cells with a 500 μg/ml dispersion of the construct (Method 1) were “neutralised” with the peptide QTNDKHKRDTY and retested against the modified cells. Sera were neutralized by adding 10 μL of 1 mg/ml solution of peptide to a 50 μL volume of sera and incubating for 30 minutes at 37° C. Testing was performed using BioVue ™ cards. M1 modified M2 cells vs cells serum Identity of sera #4 #5 #6 #2 #6 #8 Serum alone 5 5 10 8 8 8 Serum + peptide 0 0 0 0 2 0

TABLE 11 Sera reactive with RBCs modified to incorporate the M13 peptide- lipid construct by contacting the cells with a 500 μg/ml dispersion of the construct (Method 1) were “neutralised” with the peptide SSQTNDKHKRDTY and retested against the modified cells. M13 modified cells Identity of sera #3 #42 #37 #34 Serum alone 8 8 8 8 Serum + peptide 0 0 0 0 Sera were neutralized by adding 10 μL of 1 mg/ml solution of peptide to a 50 μL volume of sera and incubating for 30 minutes at 37° C. Testing was performed using BioVue ™ cards.

Modification of Embryos with the Peptide-Lipid Construct Designated DOPE-PEG6-βAla-Mal-PTS-Milt(K) (M2)

The zona pellucida of day 3.5 embryos prepared as microdrops were removed by incubation in 0.5% pronase solution for circa 5 minutes at 37° C. The zona pellucida removed embryos were transferred to microdrops containing media alone and contacted with a dispersion of the peptide-lipid construct designated DOPE-PEG6-βAla-Mal-PTS-Milt(K) (M2) at a concentration of 1 mg/ml for 2 hours. The dispersion of the peptide-lipid construct contained azide as an anti-microbial agent.

The incubated embryos were washed four times in handling media and transferred to microdrops containing the Gam monoclonal antibody (see Table 8) and incubated at 37° C. for 40 min. The embryos were then washed four times in handling media and transferred to microdrops containing secondary antibody (FITC anti-mouse) at a 1:50 dilution.

The microdrops were incubated at room temperature in the dark for 30 minutes before being washed four times in handling media, placed on microscope slides, and overlaid with mineral oil. The embryos were visualized using an Olympus™ BX51 fluorescent microscope at 200× magnification with WIB filter 550 nm emission wavelength. The scale used for grading fluorescence was 0 to 4+, where 0 is no fluorescence and 4+ is very bright fluorescence. The mean fluorescence of the modified embryos was 2+ versus zero for unmodified embryos. The grading of fluorescence is recorded in Table 12.

TABLE 12 Fluorescence of embryos modified by contacting with the peptide-lipid construct designated DOPE-PEG6-βAla-Mal-PTS-Milt (K) (M2) (10 embryos per group; scale is 0 to 4+). Mean Fluorescence* M2 FSL-peptide Media alone 2.0+ 0

A mean fluorescence of 2+ was observed for the zona pellucida removed embryos modified to incorporate the peptide-lipid construct designated DOPE-PEG6-βAla-Mal-PTS-Milt(K) (M2). No fluorescence was observed for control embryos. The de-compaction of treated embryos was attributed to the presence of azide in the dispersion of the peptide-lipid construct.

Although the invention has been described by way of exemplifying embodiments it should be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore where known equivalents exist to specific features, such equivalents are incorporated as if specifically referred to in this specification.

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1. A method of detecting the presence of reactive antibody in the serum of a human comprising the steps of: a) contacting a sample of the serum obtained from the human with a suspension of red blood cells modified by incorporation of a water soluble peptide-lipid construct of the structure F-S-L to provide a mixture; b) adding an anti-human globulin antibody to the mixture; c) incubating the mixture from step a) for a time and at a temperature sufficient to allow agglutination; and then d) determining the degree of agglutination of the red blood cells in the mixture, wherein the degree of agglutination is indicative of the presence of the reactive antibody in said serum; where F is a peptide comprising an epitope for the reactive antibody, S is a spacer comprising an oligomer of ethylene glycol covalently linking F to L, and L is phosphatidylethanolamine, wherein the number of ethylene oxide repeats in said oligomer of ethylele glycol is 6 to
 14. 2. The method of claim 1 where the water soluble peptide-lipid construct is of the structure:

where (Xaa)_(x) is the peptide, M is a monovalent cation (M⁺), n is 6 to 14, w is 1 or 2, and * is the point of attachment of the alkyl chain of the two diacyl lipid tails of phosphatidylethanolamine.
 3. The method of claim 2 where the epitope is of the MNS blood group system.
 4. The method of claim 3 where the peptide-lipid construct is of the structure:

where M is a monovalent cation (M⁺).
 5. The method of claim 4 where the method includes the preliminary step of adding an amount of the peptide of the peptide-lipid construct to the sample of the serum, where the amount of the peptide is sufficient to neutralize non-specific agglutination or confirm specificity of the peptide. 